EP4448062A1

EP4448062A1 - Fluid dispensing device

Info

Publication number: EP4448062A1
Application number: EP21827680.6A
Authority: EP
Inventors: Thomas Mark Kemp; Robert John Wilson; Timothy George Wolf DENYER; James Richard MCLAREN; Thomas HINNEN
Original assignee: A Natterman und Cie GmbH
Current assignee: A Natterman und Cie GmbH
Priority date: 2021-12-14
Filing date: 2021-12-14
Publication date: 2024-10-23
Also published as: CN118647424A; WO2023111634A1

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to a fluid dispensing device (1) comprising: - a housing (10) to accommodate a container (110) filled a fluid, - a outlet orifice (3), - a discharge mechanism (130) operable for spray discharging multiple doses of the fluid via the outlet orifice (3), - a mechanical energy storage (50) coupled to the discharge mechanism (130), reversibly transferable between a preloaded state and an unloaded state and configured to store mechanical energy in the preloaded state effective to produce the spray discharging of the fluid, - a releasable interlock (70) configured to retain the mechanical energy storage (50) in the preloaded state, - a trigger mechanism (90) operationally engageable with the interlock (70) and operable i) to release a first portion of the mechanical energy stored in the mechanical energy storage (50) when actuated for a first time and ii) to release at least a second portion of the mechanical energy stored in the mechanical energy storage (50) when actuated for a second time.

Description

Fluid Dispensing Device

Technical field

The present disclosure relates to the field of fluid dispensing devices and in particular to fluid dispensing devices configured as nasal inhalers.

Background

Fluid dispensing devices operable to atomize a liquid substance are as such known. Such devices typically comprise an outlet orifice, e.g. integrated in or provided by a nozzle. Upon application of a force by a user to an actuation lever or a button the fluid is dispensed via the outlet orifice. Such devices may be arranged to dispense a single or multiple doses and may be equipped with a container providing a reservoir for the fluid thus allowing and supporting the dispensing of several doses.

Such fluid dispensing devices may be provided with a mechanical energy storage operable to provide a force effect for discharging and/or atomizing of the fluid. Here, a user may induce a spray dispensing of the fluid by depressing a trigger by way of which mechanical energy provided by the mechanical energy storage is released for the fluid dispensing.

Charging or preloading of the mechanical energy storage may be induced by user interaction. With existing fluid dispensing devices a user has to recharge or preload the mechanical energy storage every time a fluid dispensing action has been triggered.

It is generally desirable to improve operability and user handling of such fluid dispensing devices. Moreover, user acceptance of such fluid dispensing device should be enhanced.

Summary

In one aspect there is provided a fluid dispensing device. The fluid dispensing device comprises a housing to accommodate a container filled with a fluid. The fluid dispensing device further comprises an outlet orifice. The fluid dispensing device also comprises a discharge mechanism, which is operable for spray discharging multiple doses of the fluid via the outlet orifice. The fluid dispensing device further comprises a mechanical energy storage coupled to the discharge mechanism. The mechanical energy storage is reversibly transferable between a preloaded state and an unloaded date. The mechanical energy storage is configured to store mechanical energy in the preloaded date. When in the preloaded state the mechanical energy storage is operable and/or effective to produce the spray discharging of the fluid.

The fluid dispensing device further comprises a releasable interlock configured to retain the mechanical energy storage in the preloaded state. There is further provided a trigger mechanism. The trigger mechanism is operationally engageable with the interlock. The trigger mechanism is operable to release a first portion of the mechanical energy stored in the mechanical energy storage when the trigger mechanism is activated for a first time. The trigger mechanism is further operable to release at least a second portion of the mechanical energy stored in the mechanical energy storage when the trigger mechanism is activated for a second time.

Accordingly, the trigger mechanism and the releasable interlock are implemented to interact with the mechanical energy storage in such a way, that only a portion of the mechanical energy stored in the mechanical energy storage can be released upon or in response to a single or individual actuation of the trigger mechanism in order to produce a first a spray discharging. With another or repeated actuation a second a spray discharging is triggered without the necessity to bias or to recharge the mechanical energy storage.

This way, the fluid dispensing device is configured to reversibly charge and discharge a mechanical energy storage, wherein discharging of the mechanical energy storage can be separated into a sequence of at least a first and a second partial discharging of mechanical energy. Each one of the partial energy discharging is effective to produce a spray discharging of a dose of the fluid via the outlet orifice. In effect, once the mechanical energy storage is charged, loaded, or biased so as to store an amount of mechanical energy the trigger mechanism and the interval lock are operable to release only a portion of the stored mechanical energy. This way, and once the mechanical energy storage is appropriately biased or loaded with mechanical energy a user of the fluid dispensing device may actuate the trigger mechanism multiple times in order to effectuate a spray discharging action of the discharge mechanism.

In between a sequence of dose dispensing actions or in between actuation of the trigger mechanism multiple times it is not necessary to recharge or to reload the mechanical energy storage.

With some examples the fluid dispensing device is implemented as a nasal inhaler. The outlet orifice may be provided on or integrated into a nozzle. The outlet orifice may be provided at a free end or distal end of a tapered nozzle. Such a nozzle may be configured and shaped for insertion into a nostril of a user. In effect, and by providing a sequence of multiple re-loaded spray discharging actions by actuating the trigger mechanism a user may apply a first dose of spray discharging into a first nostril and may then actuate the trigger mechanism repeatedly for dispensing a second spray discharge in a second nostril. In between repeated actuation of the trigger mechanism it will not be necessary to recharge or to reload the discharge mechanism.

According to a further example of the fluid dispensing device the releasable interlock is configured and/or operable to retain the mechanical energy storage in at least a first partially loaded state after a first activation of the trigger mechanism. When in the first partially loaded state the mechanical energy storage is provided with an amount of mechanical energy that is sufficient to produce another spray discharging of the fluid by the discharge mechanism.

Generally, the fluid dispensing device is not limited to produce only a first and a second spray discharging of the fluid based or derived from a single charging or loading of the mechanical energy storage. With some examples the releasable interlock and the trigger mechanism are operable to cooperate with the mechanical energy storage to produce at least three, at least four, at least five, at least six or even more individual spray discharging actions without an intermediate reloading or recharging of the mechanical energy storage.

Accordingly, and following another example the releasable interlock is configured to retain the mechanical energy storage in at least a second partially loaded state in response to a second actuation of the trigger mechanism. This way and when in the second partially loaded state the mechanical energy, which is still stored and provided in or by the mechanical energy storage will be sufficient to produce or to effectuate discharging of another, hence of a third those of the fluid by the outlet orifice.

According to a further example the discharge mechanism comprises a driver operatively coupled to the mechanical energy storage. The driver is movable relative to one of the container and the outlet orifice or nozzle to effectuate the spray discharging of the fluid. With some examples at least one of the container and the outlet orifice or nozzle is fixed to the housing of the fluid dispensing device. Then, the driver is movable relative to the housing of the fluid dispensing device in order to effectuate or to produce the spray discharging of the fluid. With some examples the driver is implemented as a part of a pump in fluid connection with the container filled with the fluid. The pump is operable to withdraw an amount of the fluid from the container and to discharge the fluid via the outlet orifice.

Typically, the pump and/or the driver are operable to expel the fluid via the outlet orifice and to atomize the fluid via the outlet orifice in order to produce a spray discharging of the fluid. Typically, the driver is reversibly movable relative to at least one of the container, the outlet orifice, and the housing in order to withdraw an amount of the fluid from the container and/or to expel an amount, e.g. a dose of the fluid via the outlet orifice.

According to a further example the driver is longitudinally slidably guided in or on the housing along a longitudinal direction between a biased position and an unbiased position. Typically, the driver is movable back and forth in or on the housing for loading or charging the mechanical energy storage and/or for releasing mechanical energy from the mechanical energy storage and to transfer mechanical energy from the mechanical energy storage into or towards the discharge mechanism so as to effectuate the spray discharging of the fluid.

Typically, and when the driver is in the biased position the mechanical energy storage is in the preloaded date. When the driver is in the unbiased position the mechanical energy storage is in the unloaded state. In the biased position of the driver and hence when the mechanical energy storage is in the preloaded state a maximum amount of mechanical energy is actually stored in the mechanical energy storage. When the driver is in the biased state and hence when the mechanical energy storage is in the unloaded state a minimum of mechanical energy is stored in the mechanical energy storage.

In a partially loaded state of the mechanical energy storage the driver is typically located between the biased state and the unbiased state. Accordingly, the position of the driver between the biased position and the unbiased position may be indicative of the amount of energy actually stored in the mechanical energy storage. Typically, the driver is movable between the biased position and the unbiased position in discrete steps, wherein the step size of the driver is defined by the interaction of the releasable interlock and the trigger mechanism. Intermediate positions of the driver that coincide with partially loaded state of the mechanical energy storage may be located or separated equidistantly from each other. This way, there may be provided an equal amount of a dose of the fluid with any of the spray discharging actions.

Generally and as used herein, a preloaded state is a state, in which the mechanical engineering storage stores at least a non-zero portion of mechanical energy. Insofar the preloaded state is a loaded state. The term “preloaded” as used herein may further indicate and/or imply, that the fluid dispensing device can be stored in a loaded state, e.g. over a comparatively long time interval. Then and while not in use the fluid dispensing device is and remains mechanically biased and is immediately ready to use for discharging a dose of the fluid. Typically, preloading of the mechanical energy storage may be provided at the end of a dose dispensing procedure. According to a further example the driver is operable to transfer the mechanical energy storage into the preloaded state when moved into the biased position. Movement of the driver from the unbiased position towards and into the biased position may be induced by a user of the fluid dispensing device. Here, a user actuatable component of the fluid dispensing device, e.g. a protective cap of the fluid dispensing device, may be manually operated, positioned, or rotated relative to the housing of the fluid dispensing device thereby moving the driver from the unbiased position towards and into the biased position. For this, the driver may be in direct or indirect mechanical engagement with the user-actuatable component of the fluid dispensing device.

With some examples the driver of the fluid dispensing device reaches the biased position upon or when the protective cap of the fluid dispensing device reaches a closing position or configuration. With some other examples there may be provided a separate actuator mechanically coupled with the driver by way of which a user is given the possibility to bias, to load or to recharge the mechanical energy storage.

According to a further example the mechanical energy storage is operable to transfer the driver towards the unbiased position when the interlock is released. Hence, the driver is movable back and forth with regard to the longitudinal direction in or on the housing. Typically, the driver is movable along a rather straight shaped sliding guide. By moving the driver from the unbiased position towards and into the biased position mechanical energy can be stored in the mechanical energy storage. Upon releasing of mechanical energy from the mechanical energy storage into the discharge mechanism the driver is movable in an opposite longitudinal direction, hence from the biased position towards and into the unbiased position.

With some examples the driver is implemented as a part of the discharge mechanism. By moving the driver towards the biased position a predefined amount of the fluid may be withdrawn from the container. By moving the driver towards the unbiased position at least a part of this predefined amount of the fluid can be discharged via the outlet orifice in form of a first dose. Repeated actuation of the trigger mechanism may then effectuate a stepwise movement of the driver towards the unbiased position in order to expel and/or to discharge further doses of the fluid via the outlet orifice.

According to a further example the driver is operationally engageable with the interlock. The interlock is operable to retain the driver in at least a first intermediate position located between the biased position and the unbiased position. Accordingly, the driver is mechanically engageable with the interlock in order to keep the driver at least in a first intermediate position, optionally to keep the driver in further, hence in a second and/or in a third intermediate position between the biased position and the unbiased position.

When the driver is moved under the effect of a relaxing or energy releasing mechanical energy storage from the biased position into a first intermediate position the driver transfers a portion of the released mechanical energy from the mechanical energy storage towards and/or into the discharge mechanism thereby discharging a first dose of the fluid. When in the first intermediate position the trigger mechanism is repeatedly actuatable, thereby repeatedly releasing the interlock so as to enable and/or to support a further movement of the driver towards the unbiased position. Then, a repeated movement of the driver towards the unbiased position drives the discharge mechanism to expel or to discharge a second dose of the fluid.

After expelling or discharging of a second dose of the fluid the driver may reach a second intermediate position or may reach the unbiased position. When reaching a second intermediate position the trigger mechanism is actuatable again for releasing a further portion of the mechanical energy stored in the mechanical energy storage.

According to a further example at least one of the interlock and the driver comprises a locking element. The other one of the interlock and the driver comprises a counter locking structure. The counter locking structure comprises at least a first and a second counter locking element complementary shaped to the locking element. When the locking element is engaged with at least one of the first and the second counter locking element a movement of the driver relative to the interlock towards the unbiased position is effectively blocked and/or impeded. This way, a portion of the mechanical energy stored in the mechanical energy storage can be stored and preserved for a subsequent dose dispensing action.

With some examples and when in the biased position the locking element may be mechanically engaged with the first counter locking element, thereby impeding a movement of the driver towards the unbiased position. Upon activation of the trigger mechanism the mutual engagement of the locking element with the first counter locking element is at least temporally abrogated, thereby enabling a sliding movement of the driver relative to the interlock. The respective movement may be locked or stopped when the driver has moved a certain distance towards the unbiased position, which distance equals or coincides with the distance between the first and second counter locking element.

Then, and while the driver is moved towards the unbiased position under the effect of the energy releasing mechanical energy storage the locking element may engage with the second counter locking element so as to stop and to block a further movement of the driver towards the unbiased position. When the locking element engages the second counter locking element only a portion of the energy stored in the mechanical energy storage has been released. A residual portion of the mechanical energy is still stored in the mechanical energy storage and is available for another actuation of the trigger mechanism.

When the locking element is engaged with the second counter locking element the trigger mechanism may be activated again so as to engage the locking element from the second counter locking element, thereby enabling a further movement of the driver towards the unbiased position, which movement induces another spray discharging of the fluid.

According to a further example the first and the second counter locking elements are separated from each other along a longitudinal direction extending substantially parallel to a movement direction along which the driver is movable from the biased position towards the unbiased position. With some examples the fluid dispensing device, e.g. the housing of the fluid dispensing device defines a longitudinal direction along which the driver is longitudinally guided.

Then, the first and the second counter locking element are separated along this longitudinal direction. The first, the second and some optional third or fourth counter locking elements may be separated along the longitudinal direction equidistantly. This way and when the trigger mechanism is activated repeated times, each actuation of the trigger mechanism leads to an equidistant movement of the driver relative to at least one of the outlet orifice, the container, and the housing. This way, individual spray discharging actions can be produced, wherein each spray discharging action contains an equal amount of fluid.

With other examples at least some of the first, the second and the optional third or fourth counter locking elements may be separated along the longitudinal direction non-equidistantly. This way and when the trigger mechanism is activated repeated times, each actuation of the trigger mechanism may lead to a non-equidistant movement of the driver relative to at least one of the outlet orifice, the container, and the housing. This way, individual spray discharging actions can be produced, wherein each spray discharging action contains a different and hence a rather specific amount of fluid.

It is for instance conceivable, that the distance between the counter locking element gradually decreases with the sequence of counter locking elements. Hence, the distance between the first and the second counter locking elements may be larger than the distance between the second and the third counter locking elements. The distance between the second and the third counter locking elements may be larger than the distance between the third and the fourth counter locking elements. Then and by a repeated actuation of the trigger mechanism the amount of the discharged fluid decreases accordingly.

With some examples, there may be provided some equidistant distances in some non- equidistant distances between the individual counter locking elements.

According to a further example of the fluid dispensing device the driver is blocked against a movement towards the unbiased position when the locking element is engaged with at least one of the first and the second counter locking elements. Here, an actuation of the trigger mechanism only leads to a release of a portion of the mechanical energy stored in the mechanical energy storage.

According to a further example the trigger mechanism is operationally coupled to at least one of the locking element and the counter locking structure. When actuated the trigger mechanism is further operable to at least temporally suspend a mechanical engagement between the locking element and the counter locking structure. Hence, actuation of the trigger mechanism disengages the locking element from the counter locking structure. Typically, the trigger mechanism is depressible by a user along a first direction, e.g. a first transverse direction (y), which first transverse direction is e.g. perpendicular to the longitudinal direction (z).

In this way, the locking element may be moved along the first transverse direction thereby bringing the locking element out of engagement from the counter locking lecture. Subsequently, at least one of the counter locking structure and the locking element may become subject to a movement along the longitudinal direction (z), thereby inducing a spray discharging of the fluid.

With a further example of the fluid dispensing device one of the locking element and the counter locking elements comprises a retaining pawl. The other one of the locking element and the counter locking elements comprises a recess complementary shaped to the retaining pawl and/or configured to engage with the retaining pawl. The retaining pawl may be implemented as a hook- or barb-shaped protrusion sized to fit into the recess.

The retaining pawl is shaped and/or configured to abut with a sidewall of the recess so as to block a movement of the retaining pawl relative to the recess(es) along the longitudinal direction. This way, the locking element is effectively engaged with the counter locking element at least with regards to the longitudinal direction. According to a further example the trigger mechanism comprises a trigger head to mechanically engage with at least one of the releasable interlock and the driver. The trigger head is typically implemented to move at least one of the releasable interlock and the driver along a second direction, e.g. perpendicular to the longitudinal direction. This way, at least one of the releasable interlock and the driver can be moved relative to the other one of the releasable interlock and the driver with regards to the first direction. By moving at least one of the releasable interlock and the driver along the first direction relative to the other one of the releasable interlock of the driver the engagement of the locking element with the counter locking structure is at least temporally suspended, thereby releasing or enabling a movement of the driver relative to the interlock and hence relative to at least one of the container, the outlet orifice at the housing for inducing or causing a spray discharging.

With some examples of the fluid dispensing device the trigger head is mechanically engageable with at least one of the locking element and the counter locking structure. This way, the trigger head is operable or configured to induce or to cause a movement of at least one of the locking element and the counter locking structure relative to the other one of the locking element and the counter locking structure, typically along the first transverse direction (y). This way, the trigger head is operable to at least temporally abrogate the mechanical engagement between the driver and the interlock.

According to a further example the trigger head is sized to enter the recesses of at least one of the locking element and the counter locking element. This way, the trigger head may be configured to push and/or to urge the retaining pawl out of the recess for at least temporally abrogating the mechanical engagement of the locking element and the counter locking structure.

According to a further example the recess(es) provided by at least one of the locking element and the counter locking element comprise a through recess. Furthermore, the retaining pawl is configured to enter the through recess from a first side. The trigger head is shaped and configured to enter the through recess from a second side opposite to the first side. Here, the trigger and the retaining pawl may be provided on opposite sides of the through recess, which may be e.g. implemented in the counter locking structure. This way the trigger may enter the through recess from the second side, thereby pushing the retaining pawl out of this particular recess thereby disengaging the retaining pawl and the through recess.

By arranging the retaining pawl and the trigger head on opposite sides of a through recess there can be provided a rather robust, long-lasting and precise way of disengaging the retaining pawl from the through recess, thereby temporally disengaging the locking element from the counter locking structure.

According to a further example the releasable interlock comprises a locking spring operationally coupled to at least one of the locking element and the counter locking structure. The locking spring is operable to bias and/or to urge one of the locking element and the counter locking structure into engagement with the other one of the locking element and a counter locking structure. By way of the locking spring, the releasable interlock is engageable or is actually engaged with the counter locking structure once the trigger has been activated. With some examples and upon depressing the trigger, the trigger may push the retaining pawl out of a through recess, wherein this displacement may take place against the action of the locking spring. Upon release of the trigger and upon a movement of the driver caused by the release of mechanical energy from the mechanical energy storage the counter locking structure is moved along the longitudinal direction (z) relative to the locking element, thereby aligning another counter locking element with the locking element.

Under the effect of the locking spring, the locking element will re-engage with the counter locking structure so as to block a further movement of the driver towards the unbiased position under the effect of the mechanical energy released from the mechanical energy storage. This way, a residual amount of mechanical energy can be retained in the mechanical energy storage for another dispensing action.

With some examples the locking spring is operationally coupled with the retaining pawl. The retaining pawl is displaceable out of the recess by the trigger head Against the action of the locking spring. Hence, when the locking element has been displaced out of a complementary shaped through recess, e.g. along the first transverse direction (y), the locking spring is operable to induce a respective return motion so as to re-engage the releasable interlock with the driver.

According to a further example the trigger mechanism comprises a trigger button. When actuated by a user, the trigger button is operable to move the trigger head from an idle position into a trigger position. In the trigger position the trigger head is operable to suspend the mechanical engagement between the locking element and a counter locking structure. Typically, the trigger button may be reversibly displaceable along the first transverse direction (y), e.g. extending perpendicular to the longitudinal direction (z). A user-induced motion of the trigger button may be unalterably transferable into a respective motion of the trigger head. In an initial configuration and hence when the driver is in the biased position the trigger may be aligned with the retaining pawl located in a first recess of the counter locking structure. Depressing of the trigger button may urge the trigger head into the through recess of the counter locking structure, thereby urging the retaining pawl out of the respective recess. Then and due to a disengagement of the retaining pawl from the recess the driver is displaced along the longitudinal direction (z) under the action of the releasing mechanical energy emanating from the mechanical energy storage.

The recess with the trigger head located inside may be subject to a stepwise longitudinal movement relative to the interlock and hence relative to the locking element, which under the action of the locking spring is biased in the first transverse direction (y) in order to effectuate a re-engaging of the trigger head with the counter locking structure and hence with another counter locking element when another recess of the counter locking structure element aligns with the locking element.

Once the driver has reached such an intermediate position and when the trigger button should be released the trigger head may disengage from the recess and may be subject to a return motion into an initial state, in which the trigger can be realigned with the retaining pawl. In this realigned state or configuration the trigger head may be repeatedly operable to enter a subsequent recess and to urge the retaining pawl out of the respective recess in order to trigger another dispensing action of the discharge mechanism.

With another example the trigger button is mechanically coupled to one of a resilient member a return spring configured to provide a return force effective to return the trigger button from the trigger position towards the idle position. Hence, the trigger is depressible, e.g. along the first transverse direction (y) against the action of the resilient member or return spring. When a user releases the trigger button, the resilient member or the return spring serves to return the trigger button into the idle position. When in the idle position, the trigger button is depressible again in order to induce and/or to effectuate another fluid discharging of the device.

According to another example the trigger mechanism comprises a trigger member and a trigger spring. Here, the trigger spring is biased when at least a portion of the trigger member moves along the longitudinal direction while engaged with the driver. The trigger spring is operable to return the trigger member into an initial position or initial configuration when disengaged from the driver. The trigger, e.g. the trigger head may engage with the driver of upon depression of the trigger button, e.g. by moving the trigger head into a recess of one of the locking element and the counter locking element.

Actuation of the trigger at least temporally abrogates and/or suspends the mechanical engagement of the driver with the interlock so as to enable a longitudinal movement of the driver relative to the interlock. During this movement, the trigger head may remain engaged with the recess of at least one of the locking element and the counter locking element. This longitudinal movement of the trigger head relative to the trigger member may bias the trigger spring. When the trigger button is released the resilient member or the return spring of the trigger mechanism returns the trigger button from the trigger position towards the idle position, thereby disengaging the trigger head from the recess. Once the trigger head is disengaged from the recess and has left the recess, e.g. along the first transverse direction (y) the trigger spring is operable to return the trigger member and hence the trigger head into an initial position or initial configuration along the longitudinal direction.

Movement or reconfiguration of the trigger member comes along with a return motion of the trigger head along the longitudinal direction (z). The longitudinal return motion of the trigger head may re-align the trigger with another recess, in which the retaining pawl is now engaged. This way, the trigger button can be depressed again in order to release a further or another dispensing action of the discharge mechanism.

According to a further example the fluid dispensing device is equipped with the container, which is filled with the fluid. The container is connected to the outlet orifice and/or nozzle in a fluid transferring manner. Typically, the fluid dispensing device may comprise a pump or spray delivery mechanism by way of which the fluid located in the container can be withdrawn from the container and can be stored or accommodated in a dispensing chamber of a dispensing or discharge mechanism.

With some examples the container may be releasably attachable to the discharge mechanism. The container may be arranged in a removable manner inside the housing of the fluid dispensing device. Hence, the fluid dispensing device may be implemented as a reusable device offering to replace the container when empty. With other examples the fluid dispensing device is implemented as a disposable device. Here, the container filled with the fluid may be permanently located inside the housing of the fluid dispensing device. Then, the container may not be exchangeable arranged inside the housing. When the container is empty the entire fluid dispensing device may be intended to become discarded.

With some examples the mechanical energy storage comprises at least a first drive spring which is resiliently compressible in the longitudinal direction (z) to store mechanical energy. The drive spring is operable to induce a longitudinal motion of the driver when the interlock is released by actuation of the trigger. With some examples the mechanical energy storage comprises a first drive spring and a second drive spring. The first and the second drive springs may be oriented parallel to each other and may be arranged on opposite sides of the driver. This way, a rather smooth and tilt free longitudinal sliding displacement of the driver relative to the housing can be provided.

Generally, the scope of the present disclosure is defined by the content of the claims. The fluid dispensing device is not limited to specific embodiments or examples but comprises any combination of elements of different embodiments or examples. Insofar, the present disclosure covers any combination of claims and any technically feasible combination of the features disclosed in connection with different examples or embodiments.

In the present context the term ‘distal’ or ‘distal end’ relates to an end of the fluid dispensing device that faces towards an application site of a person or of an animal. The term ‘proximal’ or ‘proximal end’ relates to an opposite end of the injection device, which is furthest away from an application site of a person or of an animal.

The terms “fluid”, “drug” or “medicament” are used synonymously herein and may describe at least one of a consumer health care product and a pharmaceutical formulation containing one or more active pharmaceutical ingredients or pharmaceutically acceptable salts or solvates thereof, and optionally a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier. An active pharmaceutical ingredient (“API”), in the broadest terms, is a chemical structure that has a biological effect on humans or animals. In pharmacology, a drug or medicament is used in the treatment, cure, prevention, or diagnosis of disease or used to otherwise enhance physical or mental well-being. A drug or medicament may be used for a limited duration, or on a regular basis for chronic disorders. A consumer health care product may be void of an active pharmaceutical ingredient. It may be commercially available free of prescription. As a nonlimiting examples consumer health care products may include products such as nasal sprays, cough syrups, eyedrops, creams, ointments, dietary and nutrition supplements and/or cosmetics.

As described below, a fluid, drug or medicament can include at least one API, or combinations thereof, in various types of formulations, for the treatment of one or more diseases. Examples of API may include small molecules having a molecular weight of 500 Da or less; polypeptides, peptides, and proteins (e.g., hormones, growth factors, antibodies, antibody fragments, and enzymes); carbohydrates and polysaccharides; and nucleic acids, double or single stranded DNA (including naked and cDNA), RNA, antisense nucleic acids such as antisense DNA and RNA, small interfering RNA (siRNA), ribozymes, genes, and oligonucleotides. Nucleic acids may be incorporated into molecular delivery systems such as vectors, plasmids, or liposomes. Mixtures of one or more drugs are also contemplated.

The drug or medicament may be contained in a primary package or “drug container” adapted for use with a drug delivery device. The drug container may be, e.g., a cartridge, syringe, reservoir, or other solid or flexible vessel configured to provide a suitable chamber for storage (e.g., shorter long-term storage) of one or more drugs. For example, in some instances, the chamber may be designed to store a drug for at least one day (e.g., 1 to at least 30 days, alternatively 1 to at least 10, 15, 20, or 25 days). In some instances, the chamber may be designed to store a drug for about 1 month to about 2 years, alternatively from about 1 month to about 6 months, alternatively from about 1 month to about a year, alternatively from about 1 month to 1 .5 years. Storage may occur at room temperature (e.g., about 20°C), or refrigerated temperatures (e.g., from about - 4°C to about 4°C). In some instances, the drug container may be or may include a dual-chamber cartridge configured to store two or more components of the pharmaceutical formulation to-be-administered (e.g., an API and a diluent, or two different drugs) separately, one in each chamber. In such instances, the two chambers of the dual-chamber cartridge may be configured to allow mixing between the two or more components prior to and/or during dispensing into the human or animal body. For example, the two chambers may be configured such that they are in fluid communication with each other (e.g., by way of a conduit between the two chambers) and allow mixing of the two components when desired by a user prior to dispensing. Alternatively or in addition, the two chambers may be configured to allow mixing as the components are being dispensed into the human or animal body.

The drugs or medicaments contained in the drug delivery devices as described herein can be used for the treatment and/or prophylaxis of many different types of medical disorders. Examples of disorders include, e.g., diabetes mellitus or complications associated with diabetes mellitus such as diabetic retinopathy, thromboembolism disorders such as deep vein or pulmonary thromboembolism. Further examples of disorders are acute coronary syndrome (ACS), angina, myocardial infarction, cancer, macular degeneration, inflammation, hay fever, atherosclerosis and/or rheumatoid arthritis. Examples of APIs and drugs are those as described in handbooks such as Rote Liste 2014, for example, without limitation, main groups 12 (antidiabetic drugs) or 86 (oncology drugs), and Merck Index, 15th edition.

Examples of APIs for the treatment and/or prophylaxis of type 1 or type 2 diabetes mellitus or complications associated with type 1 or type 2 diabetes mellitus include an insulin, e.g., human insulin, or a human insulin analogue or derivative, a glucagon-like peptide (GLP-1), GLP-1 analogues or GLP-1 receptor agonists, or an analogue or derivative thereof, a dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP4) inhibitor, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt or solvate thereof, or any mixture thereof. As used herein, the terms “analogue” and “derivative” refers to a polypeptide which has a molecular structure which formally can be derived from the structure of a naturally occurring peptide, for example that of human insulin, by deleting and/or exchanging at least one amino acid residue occurring in the naturally occurring peptide and/or by adding at least one amino acid residue. The added and/or exchanged amino acid residue can either be codable amino acid residues or other naturally occurring residues or purely synthetic amino acid residues. Insulin analogues are also referred to as "insulin receptor ligands". In particular, the term ..derivative” refers to a polypeptide which has a molecular structure which formally can be derived from the structure of a naturally occurring peptide, for example that of human insulin, in which one or more organic substituent (e.g. a fatty acid) is bound to one or more of the amino acids. Optionally, one or more amino acids occurring in the naturally occurring peptide may have been deleted and/or replaced by other amino acids, including non-codeable amino acids, or amino acids, including non-codeable, have been added to the naturally occurring peptide. Examples of insulin analogues are Gly(A21), Arg(B31), Arg(B32) human insulin (insulin glargine); Lys(B3), Glu(B29) human insulin (insulin glulisine); Lys(B28), Pro(B29) human insulin (insulin lispro); Asp(B28) human insulin (insulin aspart); human insulin, wherein proline in position B28 is replaced by Asp, Lys, Leu, Vai or Ala and wherein in position B29 Lys may be replaced by Pro; Ala(B26) human insulin; Des(B28-B30) human insulin; Des(B27) human insulin and Des(B30) human insulin.

Examples of insulin derivatives are, for example, B29-N-myristoyl-des(B30) human insulin, Lys(B29) (N- tetradecanoyl)-des(B30) human insulin (insulin detemir, Levemir®); B29-N- palmitoyl-des(B30) human insulin; B29-N-myristoyl human insulin; B29-N-palmitoyl human insulin; B28-N-myristoyl LysB28ProB29 human insulin; B28-N-palmitoyl-LysB28ProB29 human insulin; B30-N-myristoyl-ThrB29LysB30 human insulin; B30-N-palmitoyl- ThrB29LysB30 human insulin; B29-N-(N-palmitoyl-gamma-glutamyl)-des(B30) human insulin, B29-N-omega- carboxypentadecanoyl-gamma-L-glutamyl-des(B30) human insulin (insulin degludec, Tresiba®); B29-N-(N-lithocholyl-gamma-glutamyl)-des(B30) human insulin; B29-N-(OJ- carboxyheptadecanoyl)-des(B30) human insulin and B29-N-(oj-carboxyheptadecanoyl) human insulin.

Examples of GLP-1 , GLP-1 analogues and GLP-1 receptor agonists are, for example, Lixisenatide (Lyxumia®), Exenatide (Exendin-4, Byetta®, Bydureon®, a 39 amino acid peptide which is produced by the salivary glands of the Gila monster), Liraglutide (Victoza®), Semaglutide, Taspoglutide, Albiglutide (Syncria®), Dulaglutide (Trulicity®), rExendin-4, CJC- 1134-PC, PB-1023, TTP-054, Langlenatide / HM-11260C (Efpeglenatide), HM-15211 , CM-3, GLP-1 Eligen, ORMD-0901 , NN-9423, NN-9709, NN-9924, NN-9926, NN-9927, Nodexen, Viador-GLP-1 , CVX-096, ZYOG-1 , ZYD-1 , GSK-2374697, DA-3091 , MAR-701 , MAR709, ZP- 2929, ZP-3022, ZP-DI-70, TT-401 (Pegapamodtide), BHM-034. MOD-6030, CAM-2036, DA- 15864, ARI-2651 , ARI-2255, Tirzepatide (LY3298176), Bamadutide (SAR425899), Exenatide- XTEN and Glucagon-Xten.

An example of an oligonucleotide is mipomersen sodium (Kynamro®), a cholesterol-reducing antisense therapeutic for the treatment of familial hypercholesterolemia or RG012 for the treatment of Alport syndrome.

Examples of DPP4 inhibitors are Linagliptin, Vildagliptin, Sitagliptin, Denagliptin, Saxagliptin, Berberine.

Examples of hormones include hypophysis hormones or hypothalamus hormones or regulatory active peptides and their antagonists, such as Gonadotropine (Follitropin, Lutropin, Choriongonadotropin, Menotropin), Somatropine (Somatropin), Desmopressin, Terlipressin, Gonadorelin, Triptorelin, Leuprorelin, Buserelin, Nafarelin, and Goserelin.

Examples of polysaccharides include a glucosaminoglycane, a hyaluronic acid, a heparin, a low molecular weight heparin or an ultra-low molecular weight heparin or a derivative thereof, or a sulphated polysaccharide, e.g. a poly-sulphated form of the above-mentioned polysaccharides, and/or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof. An example of a pharmaceutically acceptable salt of a poly-sulphated low molecular weight heparin is enoxaparin sodium. An example of a hyaluronic acid derivative is Hylan G-F 20 (Synvisc®), a sodium hyaluronate.

The term “antibody”, as used herein, refers to an immunoglobulin molecule or an antigenbinding portion thereof. Examples of antigen-binding portions of immunoglobulin molecules include F(ab) and F(ab’)2 fragments, which retain the ability to bind antigen. The antibody can be polyclonal, monoclonal, recombinant, chimeric, de-immunized or humanized, fully human, non-human, (e.g., murine), or single chain antibody. In some embodiments, the antibody has effector function and can fix complement. In some embodiments, the antibody has reduced or no ability to bind an Fc receptor. For example, the antibody can be an isotype or subtype, an antibody fragment or mutant, which does not support binding to an Fc receptor, e.g., it has a mutagenized or deleted Fc receptor binding region. The term antibody also includes an antigen-binding molecule based on tetravalent bispecific tandem immunoglobulins (TBTI) and/or a dual variable region antibody-like binding protein having cross-over binding region orientation (CODV).

The terms “fragment” or “antibody fragment” refer to a polypeptide derived from an antibody polypeptide molecule (e.g., an antibody heavy and/or light chain polypeptide) that does not comprise a full-length antibody polypeptide, but that still comprises at least a portion of a full- length antibody polypeptide that is capable of binding to an antigen. Antibody fragments can comprise a cleaved portion of a full length antibody polypeptide, although the term is not limited to such cleaved fragments. Antibody fragments that are useful in the present invention include, for example, Fab fragments, F(ab’)2 fragments, scFv (single-chain Fv) fragments, linear antibodies, monospecific or multispecific antibody fragments such as bispecific, trispecific, tetraspecific and multispecific antibodies (e.g., diabodies, triabodies, tetrabodies), monovalent or multivalent antibody fragments such as bivalent, trivalent, tetravalent and multivalent antibodies, minibodies, chelating recombinant antibodies, tribodies or bibodies, intrabodies, nanobodies, small modular immunopharmaceuticals (SMIP), binding-domain immunoglobulin fusion proteins, camelized antibodies, and VHH containing antibodies. Additional examples of antigen-binding antibody fragments are known in the art.

The terms “Complementarity-determining region” or “CDR” refer to short polypeptide sequences within the variable region of both heavy and light chain polypeptides that are primarily responsible for mediating specific antigen recognition. The term “framework region” refers to amino acid sequences within the variable region of both heavy and light chain polypeptides that are not CDR sequences, and are primarily responsible for maintaining correct positioning of the CDR sequences to permit antigen binding. Although the framework regions themselves typically do not directly participate in antigen binding, as is known in the art, certain residues within the framework regions of certain antibodies can directly participate in antigen binding or can affect the ability of one or more amino acids in CDRs to interact with antigen. Examples of antibodies are anti PCSK-9 mAb (e.g., Alirocumab), anti IL-6 mAb (e.g., Sarilumab), and anti IL- 4 mAb (e.g., Dupilumab).

Pharmaceutically acceptable salts of any API described herein are also contemplated for use in a drug or medicament in a drug delivery device. Pharmaceutically acceptable salts are for example acid addition salts and basic salts.

Those of skill in the art will understand that modifications (additions and/or removals) of various components of the APIs, formulations, apparatuses, methods, systems, and embodiments described herein may be made without departing from the full scope and spirit of the present invention, which encompass such modifications and any and all equivalents thereof.

It will be further apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications and variations can be made to the present disclosure without departing from the scope of the disclosure. Further, it is to be noted, that any reference numerals used in the appended claims are not to be construed as limiting the scope of the disclosure.

Brief description of the drawings

The details of particular implementations are set forth in the accompanying drawings and description below. Like reference numerals may refer to like elements throughout the specification. Other features will be apparent from the following description, including the drawings and claims. The drawings, though, are for the purposes of illustration and description only and are not intended as a definition of the limits of the disclosure.

In the following, numerous examples of a fluid dispensing device will be described in greater detail by making reference to the drawings, in which:

Fig. 1 shows an example of a fluid dispensing device implemented as a spray delivery device,

Fig. 2 shows the device in a configuration, wherein a protective cap is in an open position,

Fig. 3 shows the device in the course of dispensing a dose of the fluid,

Fig. 4 shows a perspective illustration of individual components of the fluid dispensing device,

Fig. 5 shows a perspective illustration of a closure of the fluid dispensing device,

Fig. 6 is a longitudinal cross-section through the closure of Fig. 5,

Fig. 7 shows a detail of the closure provided with a trigger mechanism,

Fig. 8 shows a cross-section through the arrangement of Fig. 7,

Fig. 9 shows the trigger mechanism in an initial configuration,

Fig. 10 shows the trigger mechanism when a trigger button is depressed for a first time,

Fig. 11 shows the trigger mechanism after depressing the trigger button for a first time,

Fig. 12 shows the trigger mechanism after release of the trigger button,

Fig. 13 shows a longitudinal cross-section through the fluid dispensing device,

Fig. 14 shows a cross-section through a discharge mechanism before dispensing of a first dose of the fluid, Fig. 15 shows the discharge mechanism after dispensing of a first dose of the fluid,

Fig. 16 shows the discharge mechanism after dispensing of a second dose and

Fig. 17 shows the discharge mechanism after dispensing of a third dose,

Fig. 18 shows an example of a driving spring arrangement of a mechanical energy storage,

Fig. 19 shows another example of two driving springs,

Fig. 20 shows an example, wherein the drive springs are constituted by numerous spring elements,

Fig. 21 shows an initial configuration of a mechanical energy storage in an initial configuration, wherein the protective cap of the fluid dispensing device is in a closed position,

Fig. 22 shows a detail of the configuration according to Fig. 21 ,

Fig. 23 is illustrative of a configuration of the mechanical energy storage after opening of the protective cap,

Fig. 24 shows the mechanical energy storage of the dispensing of a first dose of the fluid,

Fig. 25 is illustrative of the mechanical energy storage after dispensing of a second dose of the fluid,

Fig. 26 shows a configuration of the mechanical energy storage after dispensing of a third those of the fluid,

Fig. 27 shows a cross-section through an example of a fluid container of the fluid dispensing device,

Fig. 28 shows the fluid container configured for mechanical engagement with the fluid discharge mechanism of the fluid dispensing device,

Fig. 29 shows a further example of a fluid container,

Fig. 30 shows a cross-section through the fluid container according to Fig. 29,

Fig. 31 shows a transverse cross-section through the fluid dispensing device,

Fig. 32 shows a proximal end of a driver of the fluid dispensing device,

Fig. 33 is an enlarged view of the interaction between the protective cap and a biasing mechanism in a perspective illustration,

Fig. 34 is an enlarged view of a cross-section through a biasing mechanism configured for storing mechanical energy in the mechanical energy storage,

Fig. 35 shows a mutual position of a biasing member relative to a driver of the discharge mechanism with the driver in the biased position,

Fig. 36 shows the arrangement of Fig. 35, wherein the driver is in the unbiased position,

Fig. 37 shows the biasing mechanism, wherein the protective cap is in an open position,

Fig. 38 shows the biasing mechanism, wherein the protective cap is in an intermediate position, Fig. 39 shows the biasing mechanism with the protective cap in a closed position,

Fig. 40 shows the housing of the fluid dispensing device and the protective cap in a disassembled configuration,

Fig. 41 shows the housing and the protective cap when mutually assembled, and

Fig. 42 shows a cross-section through a hinge by way of which the protective cap is pivotably lease supported on the housing.

Detailed description

In Figs. 1-42 numerous examples and configurations of a fluid dispensing device 1 are schematically illustrated. The fluid dispensing device 1 may be implemented as a nasal inhaler. The fluid dispensing device 1 comprises a housing 10. The housing 10 comprises a body 11 sized to accommodate a fluid container 110 filled with a dispensable fluid. The fluid may comprise a medicament comprising a pharmaceutically active substance.

The fluid container 110 may be entirely arranged inside the hollow and rather cup-shaped body

11 of the housing 10. The housing 10 further comprises a protective cap 12. The protective cap

12 is sized and shaped to enclose an outlet orifice 3, e.g. provided at or in a nozzle 14. The nozzle 14 may comprise a conically-shaped protrusion sized for insertion into a nostril of a user. A distal end of the nozzle 14 may be provided with the outlet orifice 3. The outlet orifice 3 may be part of an atomizer 2 configured and shaped to atomize or to nebulize the fluid when dispensed by or through the nozzle 14.

The nozzle 14 may be implemented as a part of a closure 13 configured for fastening to a distal end of the cup-shaped body 11 . The closure 13 may be clip-fastened to the upper or distal end of the body 11 . The closure 13 may be detachably or undetachably connected to the sidewall 18 of the body 11 .

The protective cap 12 is pivotally supported or arranged on the housing 11 . It may be hingedly attached to the housing 11 by way of a hinge 20. For this, the protective cap 12 comprises a hinge axis 21 . The housing 11 comprises two oppositely located recesses 22 sized and shaped to receive an axial protrusion 152 of a pinion segment 151 integrally formed or attached to the protective cap 12 as illustrated in Figs. 40-42.

The axial protrusions 152 may be snap fitted into the oppositely located recesses 22 and may be pivotally supported in the recesses 22 on the inside surface of the sidewall 18. This way, the protective cap 12 can be pivoted relative to the body 11 between a closed position as illustrated in Fig. 1 and an open position as illustrated in Fig. 3.

Inside the fluid dispensing device 1 there is provided a driver 30, which is longitudinally displaceable relative to the housing 10 along a longitudinal direction (z). The driver 30 is implemented as a part of a discharge mechanism 130. The discharge mechanism 130 comprises or forms a pump by way of which one or several doses of the fluid can be extracted or withdrawn from the fluid container 110 and by way of which one or multiple doses of the fluid can be expelled through the nozzle 14 by one or several spray delivery actions.

The driver 30 and hence the discharge mechanism 130 is biased by a mechanical energy storage 50. The mechanical energy storage 50 comprises at least one drive spring 51 , 52 by way of which mechanical energy can be stored in the fluid dispensing device 1. The mechanical energy storage 50 is operatively coupled or engaged with the discharge mechanism 130 and is transferable between a preloaded state and an unloaded state. The mechanical energy storage 50 is configured to store mechanical energy in the preloaded state, which mechanical energy is effective and sufficient to produce the spray discharging of the fluid.

The fluid dispensing device 1 further comprises a releasable interlock 70, which is configured to retain the mechanical energy storage 50 in the preloaded state. The fluid dispensing device 1 further comprises a trigger mechanism 90 operably engageable or operably engaged with the interlock 70. When engaged with the trigger mechanism 90 the interlock is operable to release at least a first portion of the mechanical energy stored in the mechanical energy storage when actuated for a first time. The trigger mechanism 90 is further operable to release at least a second portion of the mechanical energy stored in the mechanical energy storage 50 when actuated for a second time.

In other words, the mechanical energy storage 50, the releasable interlock 70 and the trigger mechanism 90 are configured to provide numerous, i.e. at least a first and a second spray delivery or spray discharging of the fluid upon repeated actuation of the trigger mechanism without an intermediate preloading or re-charging of the mechanical energy storage 50.

As will be described below in greater detail the mechanical energy storage 50 can be preloaded or charged by transferring the protective cap 12 from the open position as illustrated in Fig. 3 into the closed position as illustrated in Fig. 1 . With other examples of the fluid dispensing device 1 it is also conceivable to charge or to preload the mechanical energy storage 50 when transferring the protective cap 12 from the closed position as illustrated in Fig. 1 into the open position as e.g. illustrated in Fig. 3. With any example it is intended that a user provides a respective torque or pivoting of the protective cap 12 sufficient to charge or to preload the mechanical energy storage 50.

With the presently illustrated example it is intended that the mechanical energy storage 50 is preloaded or charged with mechanical energy upon and by transferring the protective cap 12 from the open position into the closed position. This way it can be ensured, that the mechanical energy storage is sufficiently charged or preloaded since the closing action of the protective cap 12 is easily controllable by the end user and is inherently provided with a mechanical, haptic, and e.g. audible feedback, e.g. when a snap feature 5 as provided on one of the body 11 or a closure 13 engages with a complementary shaped counter snap feature 7 as provided on the protective cap 12.

Dispensing of a dose of the fluid contained inside the fluid container 110 is provided by moving the driver 30 relative to the nozzle 14. Since the nozzle 14 is rigidly connected or fixed to the body 11 delivery or dispensing of a dose of the fluid is also provided by moving the driver 30 relative to the housing 10 or relative to the body 11 along the longitudinal direction (z).

With the presently illustrated example a dose of the fluid is dispensed by moving the driver 30 relative to the housing 10 in longitudinal distal direction, hence towards the nozzle 14. The driver 30 is part of a discharge mechanism 130. The discharge mechanism 130 comprises a kind of a pump mechanism. The discharge mechanism 130 comprises an inlet valve 131 and an outlet valve 141 as illustrated in Fig. 14. The inlet also 131 and the outlet valve 141 may be both implemented as a check valve or as a one-way valve. The inlet valve 131 is sealingly engaged with a dispensing chamber 140. The inlet valve 131 is provided upstream of the dispensing chamber 140. The outlet valve 141 is provided downstream of the dispensing chamber 140.

The dispensing chamber 140 comprises a tubular sidewall 142 provided inside the nozzle 14 as illustrated in the sequence of Figs. 14-17. A proximal end of the tubular sidewall 142 is sealingly engaged with the inlet valve 131 . A distal end of the dispensing chamber 140 is sealingly engaged with the outlet valve 141. The inlet valve 131 comprises an inner tubular section 134 comprising a tubular-shaped sidewall 135. The hollow interior of the inner tubular section 134 is in permanent flow connection with the interior of the fluid container 110.

An outside surface of the inner tubular section 134 is sealed by a tubular sheath 138 of a flexible material. The tubular sheath 138 may comprise a polymeric or elastomeric material being elastically deformable. The inner tubular section 134 and hence its hollow interior is confined in distal direction by a closed end face 137. At a predefined distance from the distal end face 137 the sidewall 135 comprises at least one through opening 136. The through opening 136 or several through openings is/are a radially covered and sealed by the tubular sheath 138. A distal end face 139 of the tubular sheath 138 is flush with a respective outer end face of the inner tubular section 134.

Towards a proximal end, the dispensing chamber 140 is sealingly engaged with an outside surface of the tubular sheath 138. Here, an inside surface of the sidewall 142 is provided with a sealing lip 6. The sealing lip 6 may comprise an annular protrusion and may be in fluid-tight but longitudinally smoothly movable engagement with the outside surface of the tubular sheath 138. The tubular sheath 138 is tightly fitted to the outside surface of the inner tubular section 134. In situations, wherein a fluid pressure inside the dispensing chamber 140 is lower than a fluid pressure inside the inner tubular section 134 the fluid provided inside the hollow part of the inner tubular section 134 is sucked or drawn into the dispensing chamber 140.

Here, a pressure gradient between the dispensing chamber 140 and the hollow interior of the inner tubular section 134 serves to urge the fluid through the at least one through opening 136 into a slot or gap formed between the inside surface of the tubular sheath 138 and the outside surface of the inner tubular section 134. Due to the pressure gradient the distal end of the tubular sheath 138 may widen in radial direction so as to form a respective slot, gap, or slit and to enable a transfer of the fluid from the interior of the inner tubular section 134 into the dispensing chamber 140.

The distal end of the dispensing chamber 140 is sealed by the outlet valve 141 . The outlet valve 141 and the inlet valve 131 are implemented in a technically similar or substantially identical manner. The outlet valve 141 comprises a tubular section 144 with a hollow interior in permanent fluid contact with the dispensing chamber 140. The tubular section 144 may extend distally from the dispensing chamber 140. The tubular section 144 may be stepped down in radial direction compared to the geometry or diameter of the dispensing chamber 140.

Towards the distal end the tubular section 144, hence the sidewall 145 of the outlet valve 141 is confined in distal direction by a closed end face 147. The sidewall 145 also comprises a through opening 146 or several through openings 146 near the distal end face 147. An outside surface of the sidewall 145 is also tightly engaged with another tubular sheath 148, which is elastically deformable at least in radial direction. As soon as a pressure inside the tubular section 144 is larger than a pressure outside the outlet the fluid provided in the dispensing chamber 140 will be urged through the through opening(s) 146 into a gap or a slit provided between the outside surface of the sidewall 146 and an inside surface of the radially widened tubular sheath 148 of elastic material.

This way, the fluid may flow into and through the atomizer 2 enclosing the distal end of the outlet valve 141 . With the presently illustrated example the atomizer 2 is rigidly fastened, e.g. snap fitted on the distal end of the nozzle 14 and comprises the outlet orifice 3 located downstream and hence distally from the tubular section 144 of the outlet valve 141. Due to an increase of the fluid pressure inside the dispensing chamber 140 fluid is expelled through the hollow tubular section 144 of the outlet valve 141 through the at least one through opening 146, thereby radially widening the tubular sheath 148 so as to enter the orifice 3 by way of which the fluid expelled through the atomizer 2 is effectively atomized or nebulized.

With other examples (not illustrated) the outlet orifice 3 is in fluid connection with the dispensing chamber 140 and/or with the outlet valve 144 and is void of an atomizer 2. Here, the fluid dispensing device 1 may be configured to dispense other types of fluids, e.g. highly viscous fluids, such as syrups, that do not require to be atomized or nebulized. The outlet orifice 3 may be also configured to produce single or multiple drops or droplets of the fluid in a dispensing action. Generally, the outlet orifice 3 may be arranged the housing 10 or may be integrated into the housing 10 without a nozzle 14.

The dispensing chamber 140 can be filled with the fluid by moving the inlet valve 131 in proximal direction relative to the nozzle 14, which is downwardly in the illustration of Figs. 13-17. In this way and since the outlet valve 141 prevents ingress of air into the dispensing chamber 140 the pressure inside the dispensing chamber drops below the fluid pressure provided inside the fluid container 110, which is in permanent flow connection with the hollow interior of the inner tubular section 134.

Accordingly, and due to the pressure gradient, the fluid will then start to flow through the at least one or several through openings 136, thereby slightly radially outwardly widening the tubular sheath 138. This way, the dispensing chamber 140 will the filled with the fluid.

For dispensing a dose of the fluid by the outlet valve 141 it is intended to longitudinally displace the inlet valve 131 in distal direction towards the outlet valve 141 . This way, the volume of the dispensing chamber 140 is reduced and the fluid pressure inside the dispensing chamber 140 will raise. When the inside pressure of the dispensing chamber 140 is larger than an inherent resistance of the outlet valve 141 the rising fluid pressure will be effective to urge the fluid through the through opening(s) 146, thereby radially widening the tubular sheath 148 and expelling the fluid through the atomizer 2. In the sequence of Figs. 14-17, the temporal order of individual steps during one or repeated dispensing action(s) is schematically illustrated.

In Fig. 14 the dispensing chamber 140 is in an initial configuration, wherein the inlet valve 131 and hence the discharge mechanism 130 is in a biased or initial configuration. The interaction of the discharge mechanism 130, the mechanical energy storage 50, the interlock 70 and the trigger mechanism 90 is implemented such, that numerous discrete doses of the fluid can be dispensed stepwise. After actuating 18 the trigger mechanism 90 for a first time, the driver 30 rigidly connected with the inlet valve 131 is moved in distal direction as illustrated in Fig. 15.

Compared to the initial configuration of Fig. 14 the dispensing chamber 140' comprises a slightly reduced volume, which is due to the distally directed sliding movement of the driver 30 and the inlet valve 131 relative to the nozzle 14 and hence relative to the housing 10.

When the trigger mechanism 90 is actuated a second time, the driver 30 and the inlet valve 131 are subject to a further distally directed discrete movement, thus leading to a further reduction of the volume or size of the dispensing chamber 140" as illustrated in Fig. 16. After a repeated or after another actuation as shown in Fig. 17, hence after a last available actuation of the trigger mechanism 90 the driver 30 and hence the inlet valve 131 reaches a distal end position, wherein the size of the dispensing chamber 140"' is at a minimum.

Moving of the inlet valve 131 and hence moving of the driver 30 towards a proximal direction is effective and configured to fill the dispensing chamber 140 with the fluid. Here, a respective amount of the fluid is withdrawn from the interior of the fluid container 110 by way of suction. For dispensing multiple doses or strokes the driver 30 and hence the inlet valve 131 is moved in numerous discrete steps in longitudinal distal direction relative to the outlet valve 141 as illustrated by the sequence of Figs. 14-17. Here, the fluid located inside the dispensing chamber 140 is expelled through the outlet valve 141 and is atomized by the orifice or 3 of the atomizer 2.

The driver 30 is slidably displaced with regard to the longitudinal direction inside the body 11 . The driver 30 is movable in longitudinal direction under the effect of the mechanical energy storage 50. The driver 30 is also operable to bias or to preload the mechanical energy storage 50. The driver 30 is longitudinally slidably guided in the housing 10 between a biased position as illustrated in Fig. 14 and an unbiased position as illustrated in Fig. 17. The biased configuration is also reflected by Figs. 23 and 24, whereas the unbiased position is effective illustrated in Fig. 26. When in the unbiased configuration the driver 30 is in a distal end position. In the biased position the driver 30 is in a proximal end position.

The driver 30 is displaceable towards the biased position, hence towards the proximal direction against the action of the mechanical energy storage 50. The driver 30 is movable in the opposite direction under the action of the mechanical energy storage. When the mechanical energy storage 50 releases mechanical energy this mechanical energy is operable to urge or to move the driver 30 in distal direction so as to effectuate a spray discharging by moving the inlet valve 131 relative to the outlet valve 141 as described above.

The driver as illustrated in Fig. 4 comprises or forms a kind of an inner housing completely enclosing the fluid container 110. The driver 30 forms a kind of a carrier 31 for the fluid container 110. The fluid container 110 is rigidly fastened or fixed to the driver 30. Since the driver 30 is movably disposed inside the housing 10 it serves as a kind of a movable carrier 31 for the fluid container 110. The driver 30 is longitudinally guided by a sliding engagement with the body 11 . As illustrated in greater detail by Figs. 31 and 32, the sidewall 32 of the driver 30 comprises numerous outwardly protruding guiding protrusions 49. These protrusions 49 may be provided at or near a proximal end 34 of the driver 30. The guiding protrusions 49 are in sliding engagement with complementary shaped longitudinal extending guiding ribs 19 protruding inwardly from the sidewall 18 of the body 11 .

With the presently illustrated examples there are provided four outwardly extending guiding protrusions 49 on the outside surface of the sidewall 18 of the driver 30. This way, there can be provided a rather tilt-free and/or cant-free and hence rather smooth longitudinal guiding of the driver 30 inside the body 11 of the housing 10. The driver 30 is movably and slidably displaceable between the unbiased position as illustrated in Fig. 26 and the biased position as illustrated in Figs. 23 or 24. The driver 30 is slidably displaceable relative to the housing 30 and is further in mechanical engagement with the mechanical energy storage 50.

The mechanical energy storage 50 comprises a first drive spring 51 and a second drive spring 52. The first drive spring 51 and the second drive spring 52 are provided on opposite side edges of the driver 30. The driver 30 comprises a continues cross sectional profile extending in the longitudinal direction (z). The driver 30 and hence the carrier 31 comprises a sidewall 32 extending in longitudinal direction and comprises a somewhat rectangular shaped cross-section. A long side of the sidewall extends along a second transverse direction (x) and a short side of the sidewall extends along a first transverse direction (y).

The first and the second drive springs 51 are provided on the opposite side of the sidewall 32 of the driver 30 that are separated along the second direction (x). Towards or near the distal end 33 the driver 30 comprises an abutment 35 with a V-shaped recess 36. A distal end of the recess 36 forms a proximally facing abutment 35 for a respective distally located longitudinal end 53 of the drive spring 51 , 52. In the opposite direction and hence towards the distal end the drive springs 51 , 52 each comprise a proximal longitudinal end 54 that is in abutment with a distally facing abutment 15 provided at a respective V-shaped recess 16 on the inside surface of the body 11 as indicated in Fig. 21-26. It is self-explaining, that opposite short sides of the sidewall 32 of the driver 30 comprises a somewhat identical geometry with regards to an abutment or engagement with the drive springs 51 , 52.

Hence, the driver 30 comprises a driver abutment 35 to engage with the first longitudinal end 53 of the first drive spring 51 and/or of the second drive spring 52. The housing 10 comprises a housing abutment 15 to engage with the second longitudinal end 34 of the drive spring(s) 51 , 52.

The mechanical energy storage 50 is reversibly transferable into a preloaded state by resiliency compressing the drive spring(s) 51 , 52 in the longitudinal direction. As illustrated in Figs. 23-26 the drive spring(s) 51 , 52 are longitudinally compressible, thereby inducing a resilient deformation of the drive spring 51 , 52 along the first transverse direction (y). Each of the drive springs 51 , 52 comprises a rather planar shaped longitudinally extending slab profile. The drive springs 51 , 52 are deformable into an undulated structure with at least one arc-shaped undulation 57, 58, 59 as indicated in Fig. 21.

This way, the drive spring 51 , 52 are compressible into a S-shaped, double S-shaped or M- shaped deformed configuration. In order to induce a well-defined transverse deformation of the drive springs 51 , 52 at least one of the driver 30 and the housing 10 comprises a spring fixing notch 65, 66 through which the longitudinal extending slot profile of the drive spring 51 , 52 is guided and/or fixed in longitudinal direction (z).

A free space of the spring fixing notch is 65, 66, through which the drive spring 51 , 52 is longitudinally guided is only slightly larger than a thickness of the lateral profile of the drive spring 51 , 56. Hence, in the region of the spring fixing notches 65, 66 the position of the drive spring 51 , 52 is substantially fixed with regards to the first transverse direction (y).

The spring fixing notches 65, 66 are separated in longitudinal direction. This way, and when the oppositely located longitudinal ends 53, 54 of the drive spring(s) 51 , 52 are subject to a compression in longitudinal direction (z) there will evolve oppositely directed arc-shaped undulations 57, 58, 59 extending in the first transverse direction (y). The undulations are provided by respective deformable portions 67, 68, 69 of the respective drive springs 51 , 52. As illustrated in Figs. 21-26 a first deformable or bendable portion 67 of the drive spring 52 is provided between the driver abutment 35 and the first spring fixing notch 65. The second spring fixing notch 66 is provided at a longitudinal distance in proximal direction from the first spring fixing notch 65. Between the first spring fixing notch 65 and the second spring fixing notch 66 there extends a second bendable portion 68 of the drive spring 52, which forms a second arcshaped undulation 58. The second undulation 58 extends in the first transverse direction (y) opposite to the extension of the first undulation 57 as provided by the first deformable or bendable portion 67 of the drive spring 52.

Between the second spring fixing notch 66 and the housing abutment 15 there is located a third bendable or deformable portion 69 of the drive spring 52. When subject to longitudinal compression the third bendable portion 69 also forms an arc-shaped undulation 59 extending in the same direction as the first undulation 57.

On the outside surface of the sidewall 32 of the driver 30 there are further provided spring deformation guiding elements 37, 38 and 39 that are located e.g. midway between adjacently arranged prefixing notches 65, 66 and between an upper or lower prefixing large and a respective abutment 15, 35 of the housing 10 and/or of the driver 30. A first spring deformation guiding element 37 is located longitudinally between the driver abutment 35 and the first prefixing notch 65. A second spring deformation guiding element 38 is located longitudinally between the first spring fixing notch 65 and the second spring fixing notch 66 and a third spring deformation guiding element 39 is located, e.g. longitudinally midway, between the second spring fixing notch 66 and the housing abutment 15.

Spring deformation guiding elements positioned adjacently in longitudinal direction (z) are located on opposite sides of the drive spring 51 , 52 as seen with regards to the first transverse direction (y). The spring deformation guiding elements 37, 38, 39 are configured to induce a deformation of the first, second and third deformable or bendable portions 67, 68, 69 of the drive spring 51 , 52 away from the respective spring deformation guiding element 37, 38, 39 into a respective arc-shaped undulation 57, 58, 59.

Insofar, the spring deformation guiding elements 37, 38, 39 are arranged and configured to break the longitudinal symmetry of the rather straight shaped elongated first and second drive springs 51 , 52. A side edge of the spring deformation guiding elements, which protrude from the sidewall 32 of the driver 30 with regard to the second transverse direction (x) are arranged slightly offset from a virtual longitudinal center line of the first and second drive springs 51 , 52 as seen in the first transverse direction (y). This way, the drive springs 51 , 52, which may be of substantially straight shape when in the completely unbiased position as illustrated in Figs. 18 and 19 are likely to become deformed or slightly prestressed as they are installed or arranged inside the fluid dispensing device 1 .

By way of the V-shaped recesses 16, 36 as provided by the housing 10 and the driver 30, a rather precise abutment and alignment of the drive springs 51 , 52 can be provided with regards to the first transverse direction (y). The V-shaped recesses 16, 36 provide a kind of a selfcentered arrangement of the drive Springs 51 , 52 with regard to the first transverse direction (y).

The drive springs 51 , 52 as illustrated in Figs. 19 and 20 may comprise a stamped or punched sheet metal. With some examples and as illustrated in Fig. 20, the drive spring 51 may comprise numerous spring elements, such as a first spring element 61 , a second spring element 62 and further spring elements 63, 64 that are mutually fixed, bonded, welded, fused, or laminated to form or constitute the drive spring. Such multiple springs allow to design and to obtain optimal force profiles and to increase the resistance to material yield.

In effect, the longitudinally extending elongated and rather straight shaped drive springs 51 , 52 are beneficial to provide a rather constant spring force in longitudinal direction (z) when subject to the deformation with regards to the first lateral direction (y). Rather independently of the degree of deformation in the first lateral direction (y) as illustrated in the various configurations of Figs. 23-26 the force effect and the force provided in longitudinal direction (z) between the oppositely located longitudinal ends 53, 54 is substantially constant. This is of particular benefit to provide a rather constant driving force for moving the driver 30 relative to the housing 10.

The spring arrangement is further of particular benefit to provide a sequence of dispensing actions without an intermediate charging or reloading of the mechanical energy storage 50. Hence, the mechanical energy stored by the drive springs 51 , 52 and hence stored by the mechanical energy storage 50 can be released in a sequence of discrete steps, each of which releasing an amount of mechanical energy sufficient to effectuate a spray discharging of a dose of the fluid.

Apart from that, the longitudinal and rather elongated straight shape of the drive springs 51 , 52 is beneficial with regards to a compact design of the mechanical energy storage 50. The drive springs 51 , 52 only require a rather limited construction space.

In the example of Fig. 19 the mechanical energy storage 50 comprises two individual drive springs 51 , 52, that are separately arranged inside the housing 10. With the further example of Fig. 18 the drive springs 51 , 52 are mutually connected by a crossbar 60 extending along the second transverse direction (x). By way of the crossbar 60, the first and the second drive springs 51 , 52 become part of a spring assembly. They may be integrally formed. The entire drive spring assembly as illustrated in Fig. 18 may be integrally formed from a single sheet metal. The drive spring assembly may also comprise numerous spring elements 61 , 62, 63, 64. Here, a laminated sheet metal may be punched and/or stamped and/or embossed accordingly in order to provide or to form the rather specific geometric structure of the crossbar 60. As illustrated, the crossbar 60 interconnects the longitudinal ends, e.g. the proximal longitudinal ends 54 of the drive springs 51 , 52.

With the integrated drive spring assembly is also conceivable to implement a further spring element 73 into the drive spring assembly. The further spring 73 may belong to the releasable interlock 70 and may serve to keep a locking element 71 , e.g. provided as a free end of the slab-like locking spring 73 in engagement with a complementary shaped counter locking structure 40 of the driver 30 as will be explained further below.

Here, all metal components of the fluid dispensing device 1 may be integrated in the drive spring assembly, thereby facilitating the mass manufacturing and assembly of individual parts of the fluid dispensing device 1 . Also, the number of individual parts for assembly of the device 1 can be reduced.

As will be explained and described further below the locking element 71 of the interlock 70 is operable to retain the mechanical energy stored in the mechanical energy storage 50. The releasable interlock 70 is operably engaged with the trigger mechanism 90. Actuation of a trigger button 91 may at least temporally disengage the locking element 70 from the counter locking structure 40 and may thus allow to release at least a portion of the mechanical energy from the mechanical energy storage 50 in order to move the driver 30 towards the unbiased position, thereby dispensing a dose of the fluid.

In the illustration of Fig. 21 the protective cap 12 is in the closed position. Here and as shown in greater detail in Fig. 22 an abutment 8 provided on an inside surface of the cap 12, e.g. located in close vicinity to the hinge 20, directly engages with a complementary-shaped counter abutment 9 as provided on a distal end of the driver 30. The counter abutment 9 may comprise an upwardly or distally extending protrusion.

When the protective cap 12 is about to reach the closed position the abutment 8 gets in direct mechanical contact with the counter abutment 9. When reaching the closed position the abutment 8 is effective to press down onto the counter abutment 9 and to exert a respective proximally directed force effect onto the counter abutment 9, thereby inducing a further proximally directed movement of the driver 30 towards the proximal direction.

This leads to a kind of an over-pressing of the mechanical energy storage 50. As illustrated with this kind of a primed configuration as shown in Fig. 21 the undulations 57, 58, 59 may reach or get into abutment with oppositely located inside surface sections of the body 11 . This overpressing function further serves to move the driver 30 even is further into the proximal direction, thereby unloading the engagement of the locking element 71 and hence of the releasable interlock 70 with the driver 30 or counter locking structure 40. By opening of the protective cap 12 as illustrated in Fig. 23 the abutment 8 and the counter abutment 9 get out of engagement and the driver 30 is moved slightly in distal longitudinal direction until the interlock 70 gets in engagement with the driver 30 and hence until the locking element 71 gets into abutment or engagement with the counter locking structure 40.

In Figs. 27-30 there are illustrated two examples of a fluid container 110 to be used with the fluid dispensing device 1. The fluid container 110 comprises a flexible bag 120 with a flexible sidewall 122. The flexible bag 120 comprises or forms an interior volume 123 to be filled with the fluid. The flexible bag 120 further comprises a bag outlet 124 towards a distal end. The bag outlet 124 may be formed by a longitudinal end of the flexible sidewall 122. The fluid container 110 further comprises a rigid fastening adapter 112 that comprises a fastening structure 114 for mechanical engagement with a corresponding or complementary-shaped counter fastening structure 126 of the fluid dispensing device. Typically, the counter fastening structure 126 is provided by or integrated into the driver 30. The rigid fastening adapter 112 further comprises an outlet shaft 113 in fluid communication with the interior volume 123 confined by the flexible bag 120. Typically, the outlet shaft 113 is a hollow shaft configured to guide the fluid there through.

When the fastening structure 114 of the rigid fastening adapter 112 engages with the complementary or correspondingly shaped counter fastening structure 126 of the fluid dispensing device 1 there is provided a fluid-tight connection between the fluid discharge mechanism 130 of the dispensing device 1 and the outlet shaft 113 as provided by the rigid fastening adapter 112.

The flexible bag 120 provides a rather easy and smooth withdrawal of the fluid from the interior volume 123. When withdrawing a portion of the fluid from the interior volume 123, the flexible bag 120 may collapse due to the reduced interior volume 123. As indicated in Fig. 27, and when more and more fluid is withdrawn from the interior volume 123, the sidewall 122' and the flexible bag 120' change their shape towards a collapsed configuration.

A collapsible sidewall 122 of the flexible bag 120 and hence a collapsible fluid-tight bag 120 allows and supports a suction-based withdrawal of the fluid from the interior volume 123.

The rigid fastening adapter 112 that is sealingly engaged with the bag outlet 124 provides a well-defined mechanical fastening of the fluid container 110 with the discharge mechanism 130.

As indicated in Figs. 27-29 the fastening structure 114 of the fluid container 110 is provided on an outside facing portion of the outlet shaft 113 of the rigid fastening adapter 112. The fastening structure 114 may comprise one or several snap elements 116 configured to mechanically engage with a complementary-shaped or with numerous complementary-shaped counter snap elements 128 as provided on the driver 30.

With the example of Figs. 27 and 28 an outside surface of the rather tubular shaped hollow outlet shaft 113 is provided with fastening structure 114 implemented as a snap element 116 comprising a beveled side edge or side flank terminating in proximal direction into a stepped abutment face to engage with a complementary shaped stepped counter abutment face of the counter fastening structure 126. This way, a kind of a snap fit connection can be provided between the rigid fastening adapter 112 and the driver 30 and hence with the fluid discharge mechanism 130.

The fastening structure 114 and hence the beveled shaped snap element 116 may comprise an annular structure to engage with a complementary shaped annular structure of the counter snap element 128. In order to enable a rather smooth and easy mutual snap-fit engagement there may be provided at least one or several interruptions or recesses in the annular structure of at least one of the beveled shaped snap element 116 and the complementary shaped beveled counter snap element 128. As illustrated in the cross-section of Fig. 27, the snap element 116 comprises a barb-shaped structure and the complementary shaped counter snap element 128 comprises a corresponding barb-shaped structure. This way, the mutual engagement of the fluid container 110 with the discharge mechanism 130 can be easily provided simply by pushing the fluid container 110 with its hollow outlet shaft 113 in distal direction into or against the driver 30 of the discharge mechanism 130.

As particularly illustrated in Figs. 27 and 28 the driver 30 comprises a tubular shaped valve insert 132 configured for insertion into the hollow outlet shaft 113 of the rigid fastening adapter 112. The valve insert 132 comprises the above-mentioned inner tubular section 134 of the inlet valve 131 . In other words, the inlet valve 131 may be integrated into the driver 30. The valve insert 132 comprises an outer sleeve section 133 complementary shaped to an inside surface of the hollow outlet shaft 113. The outlet shaft 113 comprises a tubular shaped receptacle 117 towards the distal direction so as to receive the valve insert 132. The receptacle 117, in particular an inside facing sidewall section of the receptacle 117, comprises a tapered or conically shaped seal seat section 118 to engage with a complementary shaped tapered counter seal seating section of the valve insert 132.

The outside surface of the tubular shaped valve insert 132 and the inside surface of the receptacle 117 of the outlet shaft 113 are configured such that a fluid tight engagement is provided between the bag outlet 124 and the hollow portion of the valve insert 132 as the fastening structure 114 engages with the complementary-shaped counter fastening structure 126.

With another example occurs in not illustrated it is also conceivable, that the inlet valve 131 comprises a hollow shaft with a receptacle configured for receiving and insertion of the outlet shaft 113 of the fluid container 110.

As further illustrated in Fig. 27 the rigid fastening adapter 112 comprises a shoulder portion 115 adjacent to the distal end of the flexible bag 120. The shoulder portion 115 merges into the distally extending outlet shaft 113. The flexible bag 120 conforms and adapts to the shape of the shoulder portion 115 and the outlet shaft 113. An open end of the sidewall 122 of the flexible bag 120 is located in the interior of the outlet shaft 113. In particular, the distal end of the sidewall 122 of the flexible bag 120 ends at the outlet 124 and is sealingly engaged with the inside surface of the hollow outlet shaft 113. It with some examples, an outside surface of the bag outlet 124 and/or an outside surface of the flexible sidewall 122 may be sealed or welded with an inside surface of the cylindrical receptacle 117 of the outlet shaft 113. The bag outlet 124 may be located in or on the tapered seal seat section 118 of the outlet shaft 113. This way, there can be provided a direct fluid tight engagement between the valve insert 132 of the fluid discharge mechanism 130 and the flexible bag 120.

With the example of Figs. 27 and 20 a rigid fastening adapter 112 forms or comprises an outer rigid casing 111 sized to accommodate the entirety of the flexible bag 120. This way, the rigid casing 111 provides an improved mechanical and/or chemical or physical protection for the flexible bag 120. This may be of particular benefit for manufacturing, transportation, and storage. With some examples the fluid container 110 is releasably connectable to the fluid discharge mechanism 130. Here, the fluid dispensing device 1 may be implemented as a reusable device, wherein an empty fluid container 110 can be replaced by a new one. With other examples the fluid dispensing device 1 is implemented as a disposable device. Here, and when the rigid container 110 is empty the entire fluid dispensing device 1 may be intended to be discarded in its entirety.

With some examples the outer rigid casing 111 is made of a material or a material composition comprising at least one of a high-density polyethylene and a polypropylene. With some examples the outer rigid casing comprises a multilayer structure with a first layer made of a high-density polyethylene and a second layer made of a polypropylene. The lexical bag 120 may be blow molded or injection molded into the outer rigid casing 111. With other examples the flexible bag 120 and the outer rigid casing 111 co-extruded. Any of these manufacturing methods may have certain advantages for a cost efficient and reliable mass manufacturing of such fluid containers.

With the example of Figs. 29 and 30 the fluid container 110 only optionally comprises an outer rigid casing 111. Here, the flexible bag 120 comprises a somewhat rectangular or oval cross section and a continuous sidewall profile. A distal end of the sidewall 122 may be sealingly connected with the rigid fastening adapter 112. Here, the rigid fastening adapter 112 comprises a somewhat planar-shaped board or plate forming the above-mentioned shoulder portion 115.

The rigid fastening adapter 112, comprises the hollow outlet shaft 113 protruding outwardly from the interior volume 123 of the flexible bag 120. An inside facing side of the shoulder portion 115 is in a sealing engagement with the flexible sidewall 122. Here, the shoulder portion 115 comprises numerous snap elements 116 protruding outwardly in distal direction from the shoulder portion 115. Alternatively or additionally, there may be provided respective snap elements 116 at a lateral side edge of the shoulder portion 115. Towards the inside the shoulder portion 150 may comprise a comparatively short sidewall portion 119 extending in longitudinal direction, e.g. forming a circumferentially closed rim.

The sidewall portion 119 may be in abutment with the longitudinal, hence with the distal end of the sidewall 122 of the flexible bag 120. Here, an inside surface of the sidewall 122 may be sealingly engaged with an outside surface of the sidewall portion 119. Alternatively, an outside surface of the sidewall is sealingly engaged with an inside surface of the sidewall portion 119.

Optionally, the fastening adapter 112 and hence the rather planar-shaped shoulder portion 115 may be connected with a cup-shaped rigid casing 111 as illustrated in the cross-section of Fig. 30. The rigid casing 111 may be provided separately and may be mechanically fixed to the fastening adapter 112. Here, the rigid fastening adapter 112 may be provided as a first component, the flexible bag 120 may be provided as a second component and the outer rigid casing 111 may be provided as a third component. For producing and manufacturing the fluid container 110, the three components are mutually assembled and mutually sealed, e.g. welded or otherwise bonded to each other.

Even though not particularly shown, also here the sidewall 120 may comprise a bag outlet 124 comprising a diameter that is smaller than the diameter of the sidewall 122 near a proximal end or in a longitudinal middle portion of the sidewall 122. Also here, and as illustrated in the example of Fig. 27 the bag outlet 124 may be separately sealed and attached to an inside surface of the hollow outlet shaft 113.

Charging and/or preloading of the mechanical energy storage 50 is described below in further detail. For biasing or charging of the mechanical energy storage 50, there is provided a biasing mechanism 150 comprising a biasing member 160 as shown in Fig. 4. The biasing member 160 is operationally coupled to the protective cap 12 and is selectively engageable with the mechanical energy storage 50 to transfer the mechanical energy storage 50 into the preloaded state when the protective cap 12 moves into the closed position.

The biasing mechanism 150 with the biasing member 160 comprises a pinion segment 151 connection to or integrated into the protective cap 12. The biasing member 160 further comprises a rack segment 161 with numerous teeth engaged with the pinion segment 151 , e.g. engaged with the teeth of the pinion segment. As illustrated in greater detail in Figs. 33-39 the individual teeth of the pinion segment 151 mate with complementary shaped teeth of the rack segment 161 of the biasing member 160. The protective cap 12 is connected to the housing 10 by a hinge 20 and is pivotable relative to the housing 10 with regards to a hinge axis 21 , wherein a radial center of the curved pinion segment 151 substantially coincides with the hinge axis 21 .

The rack segment 161 comprises numerous teeth that are arranged next to each other along the longitudinal direction (z). The rack segment 161 is of rather elongated shape and extends along the longitudinal direction. As the protective cap 12 is subject to a pivoting motion relative to the housing 10 the teeth of the pinion segment 151 successively engage with the teeth of the rack segment 161 , thereby inducing a longitudinal sliding motion of the rack segment 161 and hence of the biasing member 160 relative to the housing 10 and relative to the body 11 . The biasing member 160 comprises a somewhat U-shaped profile as seen in the transverse crosssection.

The biasing member 160 comprises a first sidewall section 162, a second side wall section 163 and a third sidewall section 164, wherein the first and the third sidewall sections 162, 164 extend substantially parallel to each other. They are separated with regards to the first transverse direction (y). The second sidewall section 163 extends between the first and the third side wall sections 162, 164. The numerous sidewall sections 162, 163, 164 are integrally formed. Hence, the biasing member 160 is implemented as a single piece.

On the outside surfaces of the first and the third sidewall sections 162, 164 there are provided longitudinal extending guiding ribs 165, 166 to engage with complementary shaped guiding ribs 24, 25 as provided on an inside surface of the sidewall 18 of the body 11 . This way, the biasing member 160 is longitudinally guided in the body 11 of the housing 10. By way of a pair wise mutual engagement of guiding ribs 166, 25 and guiding ribs 165, 24 a rather smooth, tilt-free and/or cant-free longitudinal sliding displacement of the biasing member 160 relative to the body 11 can be provided.

The first sidewall section 162 further comprises a lateral protrusion 167 extending and protruding along the second lateral direction (x) from a lower portion of the second sidewall 162. The lateral protrusion 167 lies in the plane of the second sidewall section and forms an abutment face 169 facing in proximal direction. The abutment face 169 is formed by a lower edge of the lateral protrusion 167 and is complementary shaped to a counter stop face or counter abutment face 29 of the driver 30. Here, the driver 30 comprises a longitudinally recess 27 adjoining a distal end 33 of the side wall of the driver 30. The longitudinally extending recess 27 is provided in an outside section of the sidewall 32. It is complementary shaped to the lateral protrusion 167 and provides a supplemental guiding function for the longitudinal sliding motion of the biasing member 160.

As it is further apparent from Figs. 4 and 34 the third sidewall section 164 is complementary shaped to the first sidewall section 162. It also comprises a respective lateral protrusion 167 with a proximally facing edge forming a respective abutment face to engage with a complementary shaped abutment face of a respective longitudinally extending recess provided on the opposite side wall 32 of the driver (not illustrated). The proximally facing edges of the lateral protrusions one 167 each comprise an inwardly protruding projection 172, 173 by way of which an improved longitudinal abutment can be provided with the driver 30. During a closing motion of the protective cap 12 and when the driver 30 is in the upper or distal end position, which coincides with the unbiased position of the driver 30, the pivoting motion of the protective cap 12 towards the closed position leads to a respective rotation of the pinion segment 151 which is directly transferred into a longitudinal sliding displacement of the biasing member 160 in longitudinal proximal direction relative to the body 11. In this configuration the proximally facing abutment or side edge 169 is in longitudinal abutment with a complementary shaped counter stop face 29 of the driver 30.

As the protective cap 12 is moved further towards the closed position the biasing member 160 applies a respective proximally directed force effect onto the driver 30, thereby moving the driver 30 against the action of the mechanical energy storage 50 into the proximal end position, hence into the biased position. When reaching the biased position the driver 30 engages with the interlock 70 by way of which the driver 30 is prevented from moving towards the distal direction, hence into the unbiased position. A re-opening of the protective cap 12 may then be accompanied by a respective distally directed motion of the biasing member 160 as illustrated in Fig. 35. Accordingly, the side edge 169 separates from the counter stop face 29 and the driver 30 is free to move in numerous discrete steps in distal direction until a repeated abutment configuration as illustrated in Fig. 36 is reached again.

From Fig. 35 it is further apparent, that the driver comprises an outer side edge 28 that is in sliding engagement with a lower part of the first and third sidewall sections 162, 164 of the biasing member 160. Moreover, also the lateral protrusion 167 of the first and second sidewall sections 162, 164 comprise a respective side edge 166 that is and remains in sliding engagement with a complementary shaped side edge 26 of the recess 27. This way, the side edge 168 of the lower portion of the first and the sidewall sections 162, 164 is and remains in sliding engagement with the lateral side edge 28 of the sidewall 32 of the driver 30 and the lateral side edge 166 of the lateral protrusion 167 of the first and the second sidewall sections 162, 164 is and remains in sliding engagement with a longitudinally extending side edge 26 of the recessed portion 27 of the sidewall 32 of the driver 30. This way, there can be provided an improved tilt-free and/or cant-free sliding displacement of the biasing member 160.

In the following, interaction between the trigger mechanism 90 and the releasable interlock 70 for producing a sequence of dose dispensing procedures is described in greater detail. The driver 30 comprises a counter locking structure 40 on the sidewall 32. The counter locking structure 40 comprises numerous counter locking elements 41 , 42, 43, 44 that are separated along the longitudinal direction (z). The interlock 70 comprises a locking element 71 sized and configured to engage with each one of the counter locking elements 41 , 42, 43, 44. The mutual interaction between the locking element 71 with each one or with several of the counter locking elements 41 , 42, 43, 44 is apparent by the sequence of Figs. 9-12.

The locking element 71 of the releasable interlock 70 is provided on a longitudinal end of an elongated locking spring 73. The locking spring 73 serves to urge or to keep the locking element 71 in engagement with a counter locking structure 40. In the present case the locking spring 73 serves to displace the locking element 71 in the first transverse direction (y). The locking element comprises a pawl 72 configured to engage into recesses 45, 46 provided longitudinally between the row or sequence of the counter locking elements 41 , 42, 43, 44. Towards the distal direction the free end of the locking element 71 comprises a beveled edge 74. This way and as the driver 30 provided with the counter locking structure 40 is subject to a longitudinal sliding displacement towards the proximal direction the beveled edge 74 slides along the sequence of counter locking elements 44, 43, 42, 41 and is thereby deflected against the action of the locking spring 73.

When the driver 30 has reached the biased position, and hence when the driver 30 is in a proximal end position the locking element 71 is in engagement with a first counter locking element 41 . Here and as illustrated in Fig. 9 the protruding portion of the locking element 71 is located inside a first recess 45 and effectively blocks and prevents a distally directed movement of the driver 30.

As indicated in Figs. 9-12 the interlock 70 and the locking element 71 are located on a first side 47 of the through recess 45. On an opposite second side 48 of the through recess 45 there is aligned a trigger head 92 of a trigger member 99. The trigger member 99 and in particular the trigger head 92 protruding from the trigger member 99 is longitudinally aligned with the retaining pawl 72 of the locking element. The trigger button 91 is also in transverse engagement with the trigger member 99, in particular with the trigger head 92.

Depression of the trigger button 91 leads to an insertion of the trigger head 92 into the second side 48 of the through recess 45, thereby urging the retaining pawl 72 out of the respective recess 45 as illustrated in Fig. 10. In this configuration the interlock 70 is disengaged from the counter locking structure 40 of the driver 30 and the driver 30 is hence free to move in distal direction under the action of the relaxing drive springs 51 , 52. Since the retaining pawl 72 is biased outwardly, hence towards the first transverse direction (y) by the locking spring 73 the retaining pawl 72 immediately engages with a n adjacently located second through opening 46 of the counter locking structure 40 as illustrated in Fig. 11 . Here, the retaining pawl 72, e.g. its free end 75, enters the through recess 46 and engages with its stop face 76 with the second counter locking element 42. Consequently, the dispensing motion of the driver 30 towards the unbiased position is stopped. During this distally directed longitudinal sliding movement of the driver 30 the trigger button 91 may still remain in the depressed configuration as illustrated in Fig. 11.

The trigger button 91 is attached to the housing 10. It may be integrally formed with the closure 13. As illustrated in Fig. 4, the trigger button 91 is movable from an idle position as illustrated in Fig. 9 into a trigger position as shown in Figs. 10 and 11 against the action of a resilient member 97, 98. Here, there are provided two resilient members 97, 98 that resiliency deformable. They provide a fixing and connection of the trigger button 91 to the closure 13. The trigger button 91 extends through an aperture 17 provided in the sidewall 18 of the body 11. The resilient members 97, 98 are located inside the cavity formed by the body 11 . Accordingly, the trigger button 91 is depressible inwardly against the return action of the resilient members 97, 98.

The inwardly directed depression of the trigger button 91 urges the trigger head 92 into one of the through recesses 45, 46 as provided by the counter locking structure 40. When the driver 30 is subject to a distally directed dispensing motion while the trigger button 91 one is still depressed the trigger head 92 remains trapped in the respective through recess 45 as illustrated in Fig. 11 . The trigger member 99 is deformable in longitudinal direction (z) and is particularly compressible in the longitudinal direction.

As shown in detail in Fig. 4, the trigger member 99 comprises the trigger head 92 that forms a proximal end of the trigger member 99. Towards the upper or opposite end of the trigger member 99 there is provided a trigger spring 93, e.g. with a first and a second spring segment 95, 96 that are compressible in longitudinal direction against the action of a respective return spring force. The trigger spring 93 may be compressed as the trigger is 92 is subject to a distally directed motion while located in a recess 45, 46 or while in engagement with the counter locking structure 40. The trigger spring 93 is connected to the trigger head 92 by a longitudinal extending trigger extension 94. The trigger member 99 may be made of an elastic material. It may comprise a plastic material or a metallic component.

Now and when the trigger button 91 is released the resilient members 97, 98 serve to deflect the trigger button 91 into the initial configuration. As becomes apparent from the illustration of Figs. 5-8, the trigger head 92 is longitudinally guided in a sliding or guiding groove 101 provided between the resilient members 97, 98 and the inside surface of the trigger button 91 . This way, and when the trigger button 91 is returning into the initial position the trigger head 92 moves from the trigger position as illustrated in Figs. 10 and 11 into its idle position as shown in Figs. 9 and 12. Reaching the idle position disengages the trigger head 92 from the outer locking structure 40 and allows a relaxing of the trigger spring 93 into an initial position or initial configuration.

This way, the trigger head 92 returns into an initial configuration or initial position relative to the trigger button 91 . Since in effect, the relative position of the trigger head 91 to the trigger button 91 is the same in both configurations of Fig. 9 and Fig. 12. The difference in the configurations of Figs. 9 and 12 is that the driver 30 has moved in distal direction, hence towards the unbiased position by a discrete step, which step size is defined by the distance of longitudinally adjacently located counter locking elements 41 , 42, 43, 44 of the counter locking structure 40.

Accordingly, and when the trigger button 91 is released in Fig. 11 the trigger head 92 returns into an initial position due to the relaxation of the trigger spring 93 and properly aligns with the second through recess 46 as provided by the counter locking structure 40. Accordingly, the trigger head 92 is in alignment with the retaining pawl 72 located in the second through recess 46. Now and when the trigger button 91 one is depressed again the trigger head 92 urges the retaining pawl 72 out of engagement with the counter locking structure 40 thereby allowing and supporting a further distally directed dispensing motion of the driver 30 towards the unbiased position.

This way, the trigger mechanism 90 can be actuated at least two times or even several times thereby releasing only a portion of the mechanical energy stored in the mechanical energy storage 50. Between repeated actuations of the trigger mechanism 90 it is not necessary to reload or to recharge the mechanical energy storage 50. Once the user has opened the protective cap 12 the fluid dispensing device 1 can be readily used to dispense a first dose of the fluid e.g. in a first nostril and to subsequently dispense a second dose of the fluid into a second nostril.

While the invention has been described and illustrated herein by references to various specific materials, it is understood that the invention is not restricted to the combinations of material and procedures selected for that purpose. Numerous variations of such details can be implied as will be appreciated by those skilled in the art. It is intended that the specification and examples be considered as exemplary, only, with the true scope and spirit of the invention being indicated by the following claims.

Reference Numbers 1 fluid dispensing delivery device

2 atomizer

3 orifice

4 hollow shaft

5 snap feature

6 sealing rib

7 counter snap feature

8 abutment

9 counter abutment

10 housing

11 body

12 protective cap

13 closure

14 nozzle

15 abutment

16 recess

17 aperture

18 sidewall

19 guiding rib

20 hinge

21 hinge axis

22 recess

24 rib

25 rib

26 side edge

27 recess

28 side edge

29 counter stop face

30 driver

31 carrier

32 sidewall

33 distal end

34 proximal end

35 abutment

36 recess

37 guiding element 38 guiding element

39 guiding element

40 counter locking structure

41 counter locking element

42 counter locking element

43 counter locking element

44 counter locking element

45 recess

46 recess

47 first side

48 second side

49 guiding protrusion

50 mechanical energy storage

51 drive spring

52 drive spring

53 longitudinal end

54 longitudinal end

55 buckling spring

56 spring rod

57 undulation

58 undulation

59 undulation

60 cross bar

61 spring element

62 spring element

63 spring element

64 spring element

65 fixing notch

66 fixing notch

67 deformable portion

68 deformable portion

69 deformable portion

70 interlock

71 locking element

72 pawl

73 locking spring

74 beveled edge 75 free end

76 stop face

90 trigger mechanism

91 trigger button

92 trigger head

93 trigger spring

94 trigger extension

95 spring segment

96 spring segment

97 resilient member

98 resilient member

99 trigger member

101 guiding groove

110 fluid container

111 rigid casing

112 fastening adapter

113 outlet shaft

114 fastening structure

115 shoulder portion

116 snap element

117 receptacle

118 seal seat section

119 sidewall

120 flexible bag

122 sidewall

123 interior volume

124 bag outlet

126 counter fastening structure

128 counter fastening element

130 discharge mechanism

131 inlet valve

132 valve insert

133 outer sleeve section

134 inner tubular section

135 sidewall

136 through opening

137 end face 138 tubular sheath

139 end face

140 dispensing chamber

141 outlet valve

142 sidewall

144 tubular section

145 sidewall

146 through opening

147 end face

148 tubular sheath

150 biasing mechanism

151 pinion segment

152 protrusion

160 biasing member

161 rack segment

162 sidewall section

163 sidewall section

164 sidewall section

165 rib

166 rib

167 protrusion

168 side edge

169 side edge

172 projection

173 projection

Claims

45 Claims What is claimed is:

1 . A fluid dispensing device (1) comprising: a housing (10) to accommodate a container (110) filled with a fluid, an outlet orifice (3), a discharge mechanism (130) operable for spray discharging multiple doses of the fluid via the outlet orifice (3), a mechanical energy storage (50) coupled to the discharge mechanism (130), reversibly transferable between a preloaded state and an unloaded state and configured to store mechanical energy in the preloaded state effective to produce the spray discharging of the fluid, a releasable interlock (70) configured to retain the mechanical energy storage (50) in the preloaded state, and a trigger mechanism (90) operationally engageable with the interlock (70) and operable i) to release a first portion of the mechanical energy stored in the mechanical energy storage (50) when actuated for a first time, and ii) to release at least a second portion of the mechanical energy stored in the mechanical energy storage (50) when actuated for a second time.

2. The fluid dispensing device (1) according to claim 1 , wherein the releasable interlock (70) is configured to retain the mechanical energy storage (50) in at least a first partially loaded state after a first actuation of the trigger mechanism (90).

3. The fluid dispensing device (1) according to claim 2, wherein the releasable interlock (70) is configured to retain the mechanical energy storage (50) in at least a second partially loaded state in response to a second actuation of the trigger mechanism (90).

4. The fluid dispensing device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the discharge mechanism (130) comprises a driver (30) operationally coupled to the mechanical energy storage (50) and movable relative to one of the container (110) and the outlet orifice (3) to effectuate the spray discharging of the fluid.

5. The fluid dispensing device according to claim 4, wherein the driver (30) is longitudinally slidably guided in or on the housing (10) along a longitudinal direction (z) between a biased position and an unbiased position. 46

6. The fluid dispensing device (1) according to claims 4 or 5, wherein when the driver (30) is in the biased position the mechanical energy storage (50) is in the preloaded state and when the driver (30) is in the unbiased position the mechanical energy storage (50) is in the unloaded state.

7. The fluid dispensing device (1) according to claim 5, wherein the driver (30) is operable to transfer the mechanical energy storage (50) into the preloaded state when moved into the biased position.

8. The fluid dispensing device (1) according to any one of claims 5 to 7, wherein the mechanical energy storage (50) is operable to transfer and/or to move the driver (30) towards the unbiased position when the interlock (70) is released.

9. The fluid dispensing device (1) according to any one of claims 5 to 8, wherein the driver (30) is operationally engageable with the interlock (70) and wherein the interlock (70) is operable to retain the driver (30) in at least a first intermediate position located between the biased position and the unbiased position.

10. The fluid dispensing device (10) according to any one of claims 4 to 9, wherein one of the interlock (70) and the driver (30) comprises a locking element (71) and wherein the other one of the interlock (70) and the driver (30) comprises a counter locking structure (40), wherein the counter locking structure (40) comprises at least a first and a second counter locking element (41 , 42, 43, 44) complementary shaped to the locking element (71).

11 . The fluid dispensing device (10) according to claim 10, wherein the first and the second counter locking elements (41 , 42, 43, 44) are separated from each other along a longitudinal direction (z) extending substantially parallel to a movement direction along which the driver (30) is movable from the biased position towards the unbiased position.

12. The fluid dispensing device (10) according to claims 10 or 11 , wherein when the locking element (71) is engaged with at least one of the first and the second counter locking elements (41 , 42, 43, 44) to impede a movement of the driver (30) towards the unbiased position.

13. The fluid dispensing device (1) according to any one of claims 10 to 12, wherein the trigger mechanism (90) is operatively coupled to at least one of the locking element (71) and the counter locking structure (40) and wherein when actuated the trigger mechanism (90) is 47 operable to at least temporally suspend a mechanical engagement between the locking element (71) and the counter locking structure (40).

14. The fluid dispensing device (1) according to any one of claims 10 to 13, wherein one of the locking element (71) and the counter locking elements (41 , 42, 43, 44) comprises a retaining pawl (72) and wherein the other one of the locking element (71) and the counter locking elements (41 , 42, 43, 44) comprises a recess (45, 46) complementary shaped to the retaining pawl (72) and/or configured to engage with the retaining pawl (72).

15. The fluid dispensing device (1) according to any one of claims 4 to 14, wherein the trigger mechanism (90) comprises a trigger head (92) to mechanically engage with at least one of the releasable interlock (70) and the driver (30).

16. The fluid dispensing device (1) according to claims 14 or 15, wherein the recess (45, 46) is a through recess and wherein the retaining pawl (72) is configured to enter the through recess (45, 46) from a first side (47) and wherein the trigger head (92) is shaped and configured to enter the through recess (45, 46) from a second side (48) opposite to the first side (47).

17. The fluid dispensing device (1) according to any one of claims 10 to 16, wherein the releasable interlock (70) comprises a locking spring (73) operatively coupled to at least one of the locking element (71) and the counter locking structure (40) and operable to urge one of the locking element (71) and the counter locking structure (40) into engagement with the other one of the locking element (71) and the counter locking structure (40).

18. The fluid dispensing device (1) according to any one of claims 10 to 17, wherein the trigger mechanism (90) comprises a trigger button (91), which when actuated by a user is operable to move the trigger head (92) from an idle position into a trigger position, in which the trigger head (92) suspends the mechanical engagement between the locking element (71) and the counter locking structure (40).

19. The fluid dispensing device (1) according to any one of claims 4 to 18, wherein the trigger mechanism (90) comprises a trigger member (99) and a trigger spring (93), wherein the trigger spring (93) is biased when at least a portion of the trigger member (99) moves along the longitudinal direction (z) while engaged with the driver (30) and wherein the trigger spring (93) is operable to return the trigger member (99) into an initial position or initial configuration when disengaged from the driver (30).

20. The fluid dispensing device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising the container (110) filled with the fluid and connected to the outlet orifice (3) in a fluid transferring manner.